James "Alex" Harwood's Obituary
James “Alex” Alexander Harwood, II, 37, of Albemarle, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 29, 2026.
A funeral service to celebrate Alex’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel with Jerry Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends for an informal visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., prior to the service.
Born on August 22, 1988 in Stanly County, Alex was the son of Jim Harwood and the late Susan Harwood, who preceded him in death in 2010.
Alex leaves behind the loves of his life, his children, Ellison James Alexander Harwood and Harmony Faye Harwood, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with their father. He is also survived by his father, Jim Harwood; his sister, Jamie Hraczo and husband, Corey; his niece and nephews, Geordyn Hraczo, Xander Hraczo, and Tyler Hraczo; his uncle, Steve Strouse and wife, Diane; his aunts, Debbie Ayscue, Kim Cozart, Terri Raynor and husband, Anthony, and Tracie Strouse; along with many beloved cousins, extended family members, and friends.
Alex faced life's challenges with a fierce determination and an unwavering spirit that defined the way he lived. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found his greatest happiness on the farm, hunting, caring for horses, and working with his hands through woodworking. As a gifted athlete, he proudly represented the area by playing in the North Carolina Coaches Association East-West All-Star Football Game. Alex was known for his kind heart and genuine generosity toward others. He also had a strong, independent spirit and was never afraid to stand by his convictions, often preferring to do things his own way. He shared a special bond with his father through their mutual love of history. Together they enjoyed visiting Revolutionary War battlefields and exploring the stories that shaped our nation.
In keeping with Alex’s love for animals, the family requests that memorials be made to the Stanly County Humane Society, 2049 Badin Road, Albemarle, NC 28001, in his memory.
Though his life ended far too soon, Alex’s adventurous spirit, compassionate heart, and unwavering love for his family will continue to live on in the countless memories he created. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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